Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: Varies based on turkey size (see note)
Total Time: Varies based on turkey size
Yield: Varies based on turkey size
Category: Main Course
Method: Roasting
Cuisine: American
Ingredients:
- 1 whole turkey (12-24 pounds), fully thawed
- 1 oven-safe plastic bag
- 2/3 cup butter, softened
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons of a blend of dried herbs (e.g., thyme, rosemary, and sage)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Adjust the oven rack to the lowest position to accommodate the turkey.
- Prepare the Turkey:
- Ensure that the turkey is fully thawed and giblets are removed from the cavity. Rinse and pat dry with paper towels.
- Season the Turkey:
- Season the turkey generously with salt and pepper, both inside the cavity and on the skin.
- Prepare the Herb Butter:
- In a bowl, mix the softened butter and the blend of dried herbs (thyme, rosemary, sage, or your preferred herbs). This will create an herb-infused butter.
- Apply Herb Butter:
- Gently loosen the turkey’s skin from the meat without tearing it. You can do this by carefully sliding your fingers under the skin. Be gentle to avoid tearing.
- Spread the herb butter evenly under the turkey’s skin, reaching as much of the meat as possible. This will infuse the turkey with flavor and keep it moist during roasting.
- Place Turkey in Oven-Safe Bag:
- Place the turkey inside the oven-safe plastic bag. Ensure it’s large enough to comfortably accommodate the turkey.
- Tie the Bag:
- Tie the bag closed with the provided ties, leaving some room for heat circulation. Make a few small slits (about 1 inch) in the top of the bag to allow steam to escape.
- Roasting Time:
- Roasting time varies depending on the turkey’s size. A general guideline is to roast the turkey for approximately 15-20 minutes per pound (e.g., a 12-pound turkey would take about 3 to 4 hours). However, it’s essential to use a meat thermometer to check the turkey’s internal temperature. The turkey is done when it reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone.
- Resting the Turkey:
- Once the turkey is cooked to perfection, carefully remove it from the oven and let it rest inside the bag for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute and results in a juicier turkey.
- Carve and Serve:
- Carve the turkey as desired and serve with your favorite side dishes.
This method of roasting the turkey in an oven-safe plastic bag helps lock in moisture and flavor, resulting in a delicious and juicy turkey that your family and guests will love. Enjoy your perfectly cooked herb-roasted turkey
This sounds like a great way to cook a turkey. I will try it next time I make a turkey, thank you
Alice
This sounds like something I would like to try to do, but with only a turkey breast. How many hours would I cook that for? I think the company gives a roasting time on the wrapper. Do you agree with that time, or do you add more or take away some of the time?
Sounds good I will try this next time I cook a turkey.
I’ve done mine this way for years. I also stuff the cavity with cut apple slices and onion and celery . The bag keeps all the juices and makes for a wonderful gravy.
Cook on everbody